The boys are back in town

Well, woo-hoo, how fun was American Idol tonight? Amy just commented that she wanted my thoughts on this season, and first I'd like to say, "Thanks, Amy." You're one of the few who want my thoughts on anything. LOL..

Okay, Yes to David A. (I can't spell his name either). Is he a doggone cutie pie or what? And the boy can sing!!! I pray he doesn't lose all that cuteness with all the fame, you know?

I dug the Aussie--Michael--too. Yeah, light my fire and all that, ha. (It was the song he sang, people. Sheesh) And what about the guitar-playing dreadlocks guy, Jason, I think. Something pretty sweet about him (and how I wish I had those cheekbones!) Nice voice too, which is kind of the point, right?

Also liked: David H., David C., Robby and Garrett.

So voting for talent is my first tier criteria, but I've developed a second tier. Wanna hear it? Okay, how about we vote for those who could use a bit of a makeover? Seriously, those top 12 really get help in that area and can anybody say Elliot Yamin? Beautiful voice--just LOVE Elliott--but did he need help with that hairstyle and facial hair or what? So anyway I'm wondering what they'll do with the locks of David C., Garrett and Jason if they make it to top 12.

Anybody else wonder about these things? Or is it just me? LOL... Quick--send me your thoughts before I dig myself in too deep.

got bbq?

Quick! What do you get when you put 9 tall teenage boys in a beachy cottage?

An empty fridge.

LOL Welcome to my world. It started in the afternoon when Teen Son and one friend *innocently* phoned a couple of other guys wondering if they might want to bbq at the beach. Despite my warnings that it was looking "mighty cold outside", they shrugged me off with their manly scoffs and told me it'd be fine. Right. By the time my hub came home the boys were back--and their numbers had grown considerably--and we'd been shut out of the kitchen by the sheer size of them. Worse, I told hub that although I'd not had a chance to get any dinner together there seemed to be "plenty of food out there."

Ha! One grilled onion strip. That's it...that's all that was left. Grilled cheese, anyone?

p.s. They did clean the kitchen--one of the guys even washed the dishes!--so yeah, they're invited back ;) You know it...

Becoming Julie

Watched Becoming Jane last night with my hubby--and yes, he's fabulous for:

* Sitting through a chick movie
* Sitting through a Historical chick movie
* Sitting through a Historical, chick movie set in England
* Listening to my running commentary about the film and the main character beginning last evening and continuing on through our walk along the beach this morning.

There's a funny little scene in the movie where the very rich Lady Gresham comes calling. In the midst of conversation, Jane (Austen) excuses herself and runs to a concrete bench against the house, sits and begins to work furiously on something in her lap.

Lady Gresham: "What is she doing?"

The nephew: "Writing."

A look of dismay covers Lady Gresham's wrinkled old face: "Can anything be done about it?"

LOL--And that's the thing with writers (you know who you are). A thought will strike, often at inopportune times, but you are compelled to get it down on paper or you will most likely die.

My family never bothers with the question that Lady Gresham asked because they already know the answer: "No." They understand that they are bound to find me lost in thought in the midst of a crowded room, and that all those scraps of paper in my car should never be discarded, and that what they say just might make it into the mouth of a future character.

What can I say? It's what I've become. Can anyone relate?

Happy Valentine's Day to you all! John 3:16!!!

American Idol (really) Begins!
Well. Teen Daughter really had a thing for the cocky 17 year old who lived in his car, so the fact that he got cut before the show really got going does not bode well for her American Idol Season. (And, yes, hubby and I have explained that the above-mentioned traits do not make for solid future husband material either).

Other than that heartbreaker, it looks like this season of AI will be pretty tough--and fun to watch. Lots of great singers in the pack of 24, which means I'll have to save my pennies for the summer tour tradition that I started last year.

So, woo-hoo to Tuesday & Thursday nights! And Holymama? I will not be reading my email on those evenings. LOL--my bloggity buddy, who's two hours ahead, let it slip one night who'd been let go. And I'll probably never let her forget it...:)) Come to think of it, Vaders Mom did a similar thing. What is it with you Texans?? Haha...love you anyway.

Cyber beach hopping

My podcast with reviewer Jill Hart is up! You can listen in to our discussion of writing and mothering at cwahm.com. (I'm up after a few short announcements for work at home moms.) Oh, and she's running a Valentine's contest with a bunch of fun prizes--wahoo!

And I'm yakking and sharing a cyber beach blanket with Jennifer AlLee over at her blog Musings on This, That & The Other Thing. She'll also be giving away a copy of Truffles by the Sea. I hope to see you there--sunscreen not required ;)

Between the Lines

Teen Daughter and I watch chick flicks often once the rest of the house is quiet, and our movie of choice on Sat. was The Jane Austen Book Club. Except for a couple of inappropriate scenes (we fast forwarded), we giggled through this story of six people and their quest to read and discuss one Austen book a month. Somewhat predictably, yet no less enjoyable, the characters' lives begin to resemble Austen story lines. How fun is that? I can think of a few movie characters I wouldn't mind being. Actually, scratch that. I'm actually thinking of a few actresses I'd rather look like. Hm.

I digress. The movie would have been better for us if we'd actually read all six of Jane Austen's novels, so that's our goal. Then we'll rent it again, and when the characters move into their lively discussions of the books, we'll be right there with 'em, at least trying to sound smaht :)

I've never been in a book club myself (although I visited a couple last year!), but I've kept my hubby up late into the night with my one sided discussions of books I've just read (poor guy). Something about late nights and deep thoughts, you know?

How about you? Do you book club it? Or keep your thoughts to yourself (and anyone else who happens to be stuck in the house with you)?

Well, Yum!

Got a call from my mother today that I just had to get down to Barnes & Noble pronto! Here's a pic of what I found :) I'm thinking some SoCal gals are going to be receiving a nice box of chocolates and fun reading for Valentine's Day, don't you think?

***

Alert: Teen Son passed his driver's test today. All I'm sayin'...;)

You talkin' to me?

Last year I flubbed up a radio interview. Not that anyone actually told me that, but somehow I knew. See, because of the PST issue, the interview took place at 6 AM (!) my time, and anyone who knows me understands that I shouldn't be asked important questions before 10 (right, hon?)

With a new book out, I've now been interviewed twice: once for a podcast on cwahm.com, and once for cbd.com. There's something so magical about an interviewer who tells you the audio will be edited. Gotta love that! And I had a chance for a large latte before each interview, so that should help.

But now that some time has passed, I'm wondering what I said. Even worse, I'm thinking up newer and better answers. And this is why I love to write. When the story's gelling, I jot it down, but as I drive around doing the taxi thing for my kids, my characters and I have these fun little conversations where they suggest changes to their stories, and I, the dutiful scribe, comply.

If only that worked with pre-taped interviews, eh? Ah well. One interviewer asked what I do to relax, and I literally stalled and held my breath. Would it be a cliche if I told her I went to the beach??? I finally let that breath out and told her exactly that. Later, off air, she said, "If you had not told me that I would have been so disappointed!"

Hahaha...so I guess I did one thing right. I'll let y'all know when those interviews are up--or not. LOL...

best for last

Haven't said much about American Idol so far, but I do think the producers saved the best segment for last (tonight's just a wrap up show). Last night the judges seemed to have softer hearts, and the competitors were less outrageous and more genuine. That's what I thought, anyway.

Does anyone have a comment about the girl whose father died while she was on her way to AI? If that's true (and I'm sorry, but sometimes I just don't trust reality shows...), then she should win on her bravery alone. That kind of courage doesn't come every day, and she was touching to watch. Just ask Paula.

Next week: Hollywood!

Kum-ba-ya....

Did I mention we had snow at camp this weekend? Lots and lots of fluffy, white, cold, sometimes icy, snow. Our ten girls were beside themselves. Seriously, they're used to sand so this snow thing was just too fun. And wet. And cold. But I mentioned in yesterday's post that there were 12 of us, so let's just say the cabin was really warm.

Never did church camp as a kid, but I've gone twice as a counselor. The first time was rough--who knew counselors were expected to drink lousy coffee on miniscule amounts of sleep??? This time around, I came prepared with that knowledge ahead of time, so I actually enjoyed myself more.

Okay, here's what I learned this weekend about myself, the girls, and God:

--Anything less than five barf bags is not enough for the ride up a mountain.

--When the rules say No Ipods, they aren't talking about the counselors. I could've used one to block out the raucous merriment going on around me at 2 am.

--ALWAYS pack Pepto Bismol and kiddie Tylenol. Always.

--God is good.

--Camp worship leaders pride themselves on coming up with goofiest hand motions to accompany their songs. (Okay, but yeah, I've been humming and waving my arms all day...)

--4th & 5th grade girls know more about mannies/peddies than I did at 21.

--KP is FUN (Elementary Girl would be rolling her eyes about now.)

--God is good.

--Do NOT give a Reeses milk shake to a child who is lactose intolerant. Enough said.

--Playing football in the snow is, apparently, quite fun (just ask the boys).

--Even quiet girls can let loose when they're praising God. (Can I get an "Amen?!")

--God is SO good :)

winners and campers

Ten girls, Two Counselors--and one bathroom! Need I say more? Actually, the weekend rocked, but I'm too wiped out to form enough sentences to tell you about it. Tomorrow, though, okay?

I did want to pop in here though and congratulate two winners of Truffles by the Sea. (Yeah, I decided to give away a second copy.) Anyway, they are: Brittanie and Ladystorm. Congrats, Ladies, and please make sure to drop me your snail mail addresses via my website contact page. Thanks to all who entered!!!

Off to sleepy land...:0

Gone Fishin'

Truffles by the Sea releases today--woop, woop! But I can't stick around and celebrate because Elementary Girl and I are headed off to winter camp with a bunch of other 4th & 5th grade girlies. I'm one of the counselors, if you can believe it. Pray they don't bury me in silly string or something, would you? haha!

My absence won't keep me from giving away a novel though, so if you'd like a chance to win a copy of Truffles..., leave me a comment today, tomorrow or Sunday. I'll pull a name from a hat when I return, and announce the winner on Monday. Sound good?

See you Monday. And don't forget those prayers :)

Whistlestop Tour

Later this month I'll be touring SoCal with authors Kathryn (Katie) Cushman, Cathy Marie Hake, and Lauraine Snelling! Here's a quick overview of the seven stops, but you can find more info on my website's events page. If you live in any of the cities listed, I hope you will stop in and say hello!!!

Thursday, February 28, 1 PM, Berean, San Diego
Thursday, February 28, 7 PM, Berean, Temecula
Friday, February 29, 10 AM, Bible House, Orange
Friday February 29, 2 PM, Christian Book and Gift, Buena Park
Friday, February 29, 7 PM, Living Water, Covina
Saturday, March 1, 10:30 AM, Selah Christian Store, Redlands
Saturday, March 1, 1 PM, Long’s Christian Bookstore, Rancho Cucamonga

***

And my sis-in-law Diane sent this link, for me to share with all my chocoholic friends (that would be you :)

Been traveling

Just got in from a funky little beach town up north called Avila. No wireless Internet in the room--can you believe it? Eh, that's the price you pay for wanting to get away from it all, I guess.

Starting this week I'll be runnin' more than usual with a stint as a 4th grade winter camp counselor, my first podcast, other interviews, and a book tour for Truffles by the Sea. Which is why this rather quickly planned weekend away was so very, very welcome ;)

Of course, it wasn't all play. Hubby and I stopped for coffee in San Luis Obispo and just happened to walk by the Parable bookstore when my curiosity peaked and I had to take a look inside. And, yes, Truffles was there--woo-hoo!!! Right next to my pal, Sharon Hinck's, new book--Symphony of Secrets--and on the recommended shelf too. So I signed the copies they had on hand, and dropped off a few bookmarks I found in my wallet, and skipped away with girlish giggles. Yeah, I'm a bit of a goof, but what can I say? I'm eternally grateful for my novelist gig.

Brrr...

Had a little hailstorm here in California tonight, and the kids and I ran around squealing and taking pictures and holding the door open too long so that a bunch came tumbling into the house.

My Pennsylvania-born husband who grew up shoveling the walk as a kid thinks we're such dorks. But how often does ice fall out of the sky near the California coast??? Seriously!

randomosity

Okay, I've written two posts and even composed a few in my head, but ended up scrapping them all. Just can't decide which tidbits from my life I'd most like to bore entertain you with. So I've decided on excerpts from each one:

--American Idol's been a bit of bore for me thus far. You?

--It's cold and rainy and really cold here in California, and yet lots of people continue to wear flip flops. Reminds me of a certain heroine from Chocolate Beach. Pedicure, anyone?

--Teen Daughter's going to H.S. next year, and I'm hysterical about it. Breathe, breathe...

--Attended an open house tonight for next year's incoming H.S. students and, apparently, there was only one hot guy in the place (this according to the squealy, texting Teen Girls in my midst--love you girls :)

--I'm REALLY happy that Teen Son will be a junior next year and watching out for (whispering here) you. know. who.

--Just received my Book Tour Schedule for Southern California. Four authors, Seven stores, and the motherlode of coffee. I'll be posting that schedule on the website soon.

Feel free to comment on any/all of the above, or better yet, throw in a random nugget about YOU :)

Feeding that addiction

It used to be chocolate. Then coffee. Most recently, an afternoon rendezvous with chai tea. But my newest obsession? Checking book rankings. Actually, checking in to see how my next book--which isn't officially released yet has somehow shown up in bookstores and online--is selling.

Now you'd think that a true friend would step in at this point, perhaps arrange a little intervention. But no. Thanks to a pal who shall remain nameless (KC), I've now registered with this organization so I can track both of my novels with one click. Sick, I tell you.

Of course, the site in question monitors only one source--don't even get me started about all the other ranking sites available. What's that old saying about God helping those who help themselves? Okay, so that's really just a made up saying but still. Somehow I need an intervention and I think it's all up to me.

I think I'll start with chocolate...;)

Sorry, Dad

So the kids and I watched Music & Lyrics...and now I can't get the main song out of my head. When I first heard about this movie featuring Hugh (Notting Hill!) Grant and Drew Barrymore, I put it on high on my to-rent list. But then a friend who shall remain nameless saw it in the theater (AK :) and pretty much trashed it. Teen Daughter and I rented it anyway, but went in with a sort of skewed eye, a view that said "I dare you to entertain us." In the end we thought it was fun, but forgettable--except for that 80s throwback song, "Pop!" Could not get it out of my head...argh.

But recently my Dad said how much he liked it, which made me laugh. Maybe even mock his view a little--shame on me. It was all in fun though (right, Dad?) and when my son asked to see it I said, "Sure." (I made him turn away when the barely-dressed Cora 'danced'--sheesh.)

Anyway, I wouldn't call it great, but after watching M&L with fresh perspective, I found more to like. In addition to some throwback 80s moments (you know, from when I was practically a baby), and a funny scene involving women nearing 40 and their affinity for Hugh's tight pants circa 1988, the song at the center of the film (A Way Back Into Love) has hung around inside my head all evening. It's catchy and sweet, and so much better than that other song that opens the movie (somehow I think this was the point).

So I guess I owe Dad (and Hugh) an apology. Sometimes it takes another look to see the light.

Stepping up

Started a new Bible Study this week, Stepping Up: A journey through the Psalms of Ascent (Beth Moore). Let me tell you, you don't realize how dry you are until that first day back to study. At least that's how it was for me.

It's not that I don't regularly pray. I do. (Okay, but not always as I should.) And it's not that I don't believe. I do. (Then again, I'm often like the father crying out to God, "I believe. Help my unbelief!") And it's not that I don't attend church. I do. (Although I'm not sure that I'm all 'there' at the time...know what I mean?)

There's just something so rich and revealing about in-depth study of the Bible. Beth's three approaches to this particular study are: Say it. Work it. Pray it. When I first read that, it made me giggle because I thought of a long ago aerobics teacher who used to shout out, "Work it! Work it! Work it til you burn it! C'mon! C'mon!" And yes, she (and I) were wearing garish tights at the time.

So anyway, I like this approach. Like my aerobic teacher's mantra was a workout for the bod, Beth Moore's three part approach is like a workout for the soul. I expect to feel some twinges, maybe some aches, but oh, how worth it all it so will be!

Truffles sighting

My mama found this site already carrying Truffles by the Sea. It's official release date is still a couple of weeks off, but I'm thinking some might have made it to stores. Yippee! If you see one where you shop, would you drop me a note?

Gracias!

Idol recap

Had a mini-party over here to watch the season premiere of AI--pizza, pie, ice cream. Ugh. I'm sick...not really (but kind of).

Anyhoo, we sat around the plasma much like I suppose the Walton-esqe families of old gathered around the radio. Together we mocked appreciated all that talent out in Philly. Here are a few standouts, according to Teen Daughter and one of her bffs :) :

"The guy who waxed his chest."

"Star Wars girl."

"Crazy stalker guy." (Me here. Why in the world ??? )

"Temptress." (We all felt sad when she cried and the judges surrounded her with a group hug.)

"Boxing/Horse trainer girl." (Terrific voice, spunky personality)

"Never saw an R--rated movie gal." (Sweet! Nice voice. Just hope Hollywood doesn't corrupt her, as it's wont to do.)

I'm not watching much TV these days, especially since due to striking writers, there isn't anything actually on. Thankfully, AI doesn't appear to need writers as there are plenty of folks in our country willing to do just about anything to get on the small screen (that would explain shiny girl, the vet from PA with a mouth that could use some soap.)

Speaking of which, that's one improvement they could make this year: 86 the bleep outs. Seriously. It's a family show, people, and I was not impressed. I know the writers are striking, but surely contestants can come up with a more mature way to express their disappointment. Or at least, the camera guy could point the lens elsewhere, am I right???

Other than that, it's on with the show...

Changing seasons

So Elementary Girl often leaves homework until the very. last. minute. That'll change, starting today, because yeah, it's American Idol season. If ya know me at all, ya know that the girls and I (and the boys, grudgingly) are addicted to AI. We cried over Will a couple years back, and squealed over Ace and Chris R.--actually, the 'we' would be Teen Daughter--and oh, wasn't Melinda divine and Sanjaya, uh, not? LOL You can read about our adventure to see them LIVE and IN PERSON here.

Anyway, the rule, is that before TV--and especially before the uber-addictive American Idol show--all homework MUST be done. Elem. Girl's not taking any chances, however, and has already cleared away all saved Christmas programs, and over-watched Hannah Montana's, and cheesy Zoey 101s from our DVR, to make room for the first installment tomorrow night--just in case 4th grade math still hangs above her lovely head. (Of course, at hubby's command request, no saved NFL games were harmed in the quest to make way for American Idol...)

What a life. We didn't even get our first VCR until I was in high school (and I walked to school up hill, both ways!) Seriously, you miss a show, and that's it! Too bad for you! Ah well. One way or another, Elementary Girl will get her chance to see the show, proving that times really have changed.

Now, if only Simon would be nice this year. That would be a change!

y3h d!g??

So Teen Son and I saw Dan in Real Life again the other night. We were bored, and it was at the cheapy theater, so why not? Man, I wish I'd written it. Every once in awhile I find a movie that I have to have in my collection, the kind that I'll watch on rainy days or when I'm in a funk or on those rare eves when no one needs a chauffeur. LOL

Part of the attraction for me, I think, is the ensemble cast. While it may not be a true ensemble in that the characters don't share screen time equally, the supporting players are integral to the story. It's like that in Pride & Prejudice (that poor mum trying to marry off all of her daughters before their father, who's not even sick, dies), While You Were Sleeping (that quirky family of coma guy and his super cute brother), Notting Hill (who doesn't love those longtime friends of William's as they compete for the last brownie with stories of why they are the saddest sack in the bunch?)

Is any of this making sense? This is one reason why I can watch Dan in Real Life over and over again. Yeah, Steve Carrell's amazing, and Juliette Binoche enchanting, but the people they're surrounded by and in conflict with (a week with his entire family in a Rhode Island beach house) add a richness to their story.

As for books, I think this is why I read every one of the Mitford series, cover to cover (Seriously, what would Father Tim have done without Uncle Billy's jokes to break up the monotony of daily life? Or Emma's gossip, for that matter? What would I have done???)

Anybody else like these kinds of movies and books? Speak on!

p.s. Teen Daughter made the title, 'cuz this is how 'we' talk. Whoever 'we' are....;0

in a daze

The rains came down last weekend, but weren't nearly as drastic as predicted. Sunshine is back, and I'm headed down to the beach to enjoy it before the next storm--kinda like that bird in picture #2.

A beachy (or mountainy or deserty--whatever you like best) weekend to you!

Me-me-me-me-meeee!

So my pal, Katie Cushman tagged me for a meme (pronounced 'meem'), and I would have posted it sooner, but our phone line/dsl line had been down all day. Not having Internet access is much like going without my daily skinny latte: it's possible, but a total bummer. Waa!

Anyway, I'm baaacckk! So here are the rules: Post three writing tips that you've learned along the way, and then nominate 5 more bloggers to take up the meme.

Here goes:

1. If you write fiction, join the ACFW. For $40 a year you have access to oodles of advice and tools to help you sharpen up your skills.

2. When it comes to critiques of your work, don't get tossed to and fro', as the Bible says in Ephesians. Okay, so that verse refers to doctrine, but it can be applied here too. Point is, it's good to let trusted readers and/or writers review your work before sending it out for possible publication, but before you weep and gouge your eyes out worry over every morsel of criticism, look for consistency. Are all your readers saying basically the same thing? Then that's a pretty good sign that a particular area needs work. But if only one out of a whole group points something out, and you don't necessarily agree? Well, then, eh--follow your instinct.

3. Katie says, publication is often "right time, right place." So true! And you can't be in the the right place or time if you're not writing and submitting, writing and submitting, wri....etc. So if that's your goal, hop to it :)

For a few more tips, see the 'for writers' page of my website.

If you're a writer, or want to be a writer, or want to pretend you are a writer, then I tag YOU! If you post your own three tips, be sure to stop by and leave your blog address in the comments section so others can find ya. Gracias!

Ch-ch-ch-ch-changin'

Something about a new year makes me want to clean out the dark corners, reorganize the stuff, sail away to a secluded island...okay, that one's not going to happen. But just yesterday, my super-duper creative web designer Kelli updated my website and then changed the font on this blog. Could you tell? Tell me it's not my age, but the letters always seemed itty bitty to me. LOL Anyway, the type's a bit larger, can I get an "Amen!"

So for book club members, we've added discussion questions for my upcoming release, Truffles by the Sea. There's also an updated blurb about the book, as well as info about obtaining a signed bookplate (free-free-free).

On another note, I'm always amazed (happily) at how often the "your age in chocolate quiz" is taken on my books page. The quiz has little (okay, nothing, actually) to do with chocolate but many of us have bonded over it, so what can I say? It shares at least one attribute with our favorite sweet morsel, am I right?

So what are y'all doing different or new this year? (Notice my careful avoidance of the "R" word...) Other than web changes, I'm planning to pray more, sit around less, and keep it to one or two (three, max!) nuggets of chocolate per hour day. Anybody with me???

***

AND HAPPY BIRTHDAY TODAY TO MY DAD, DAN NAVARRO!!!

It's a boy!

Today we are pooped! But happy...

My nephew (first on my side of the fam) was born last night in LA after 10 pm! His mama was in labor all day so we piled ourselves into the suv and headed south thinking we'd get to see him in the evening and then have plenty of time to get home and get the kids to bed. Today was their first day back at school after Christmas break and sleep is usually important for such days

But no. Baby boy just didn't want to leave the comfort of the womb, so finally, mama had a c-section to coax out her 9lb. 4 oz. son.

Our family members--15 in all--took over the waiting area of the hospital until way past visiting hours. The girls played cards, took random pics of each other and shared ipod headphones. Teen son wandered around aimlessly looking for food, while other fam members just paced and chatted and anticipated this new life. Early on I felt myself fading (sympathy fatigue perhaps?), but rallied when baby boy finally showed up. By the time we all jostled for a looksie, then headed home, it was after midnight.

Many parents probably would've been more practical. They would've left earlier, gotten their kids to bed on time, and perhaps visited the baby some time in the days following his birth. Our kids were tired this morning, that's for sure. But I also noticed how content they were, and when this year has past, what will they remember more? Getting plenty of rest the day before the new start of school? Or seeing their baby cousin with his shock of dark chocolate hair, just minutes after birth?

Ahh well. Made a great memory last night, and tonight? Lights out early...:)

p.s. Nothing personal, but my new baby nephew is so much cuter than the kiddo on this post, LOL...

Rain, rain, that's okay...

So what's a little rain at the beach?

I so wanted to join these folks instead of running errands. Seriously, beach cruisers at the beach, in the rain. What a life!

A new year, a new review

Had dinner last night with our Thanksgiving pals--the ones we spent the holiday with up in the Yosemite mountains. It was a teppan dinner, where the 10 of us sat around a hibachi grill, ducking and shirking from flying spatulas and sudden volcanic flames. Think Benihanas (but better). After all our holiday feasting, it's a miracle we could consume all we did at this meal. (While I write this, hubby who's unaware of my topic, leans into the room and says, "This night officially ends my season of overeating.") But still, what better way to welcome 2008 than with good food and great friends?

Speaking of welcoming new things, I found the first posted review of Truffles by the Sea over at trashionista--and it's a good one :)) You can read it here.

News like this kinda makes me want to grab a handful of truffles. Hmmm. Maybe I have a little room left after all...

First New Year's Goal: Check!

Didn't wait even a day of 2008 to watch Amazing Grace on DVD. After our traditional New Year's pork and sauerkraut dinner with my parents (something my hub brought into the relationship, since I'm more of a tamales and rice gal ;), we switched on a copy of the movie and...I loved it.

It's the powerful story of William Wilberforce and his battle to abolish slavery in Britain during the late 1700s. In addition to his own moral grounding and connection to God, it's clergyman John Newton and his repentant song, Amazing Grace, that serve as continual inspiration as Wilberforce faces pompous and frustrating jerks opposition.

BTW, a few months back we saw Chris Tomlin at the Santa Barbara Bowl. I talked about that here. Anyway, Tomlin recorded Amazing Grace for the movie soundtrack and included Newton's 'lost' verse. It's stuck with me from the very first time I heard it, and I often find myself singing it when I'm having a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day (a kiddy book ref., couldn't resist).

Here are those breathtaking words. Be free, my friends:

My chains are gone, I’ve been set free
My God, my Saviour, Has ransomed me
And like a flood, His mercy reigns
Unending Love, Amazing Grace

Woo-hoo!!!

So last night, Teen Son and Teen Daughter went to separate sleepovers. I dropped one off with nothing but the clothes on their back. I dropped the other off at their party with a fully-stuffed suitcase. One guess which was the boy and which the girl. LOL

As for hub, Elementary Girl and me, we stayed home, along with one of EG's little friends and watched the ball drop on NY time. Afterward, we all scarfed a wedge of brie while watching our many-times-viewed copy of Sleepless in Seattle. Hub and I have a history with this movie. No kidding. We can recite the lines. So it was particularly fun to watch it with a young girl who had never seen it. We saw new things and laughed our pants off ourselves silly.

All in all, a great NY Eve. How about you?

Out with the old...and in with the Happy New Year!

What a year! Book signings, a coastal book tour, conferences, radio and print interviews, a blour…I’m pooped. As an article writer for nearly 16 years, I was used to sending in my stuff and moving on.

But books are different, and I’ve learned to take time to step out from behind the computer screen occasionally to meet fiction fans. For a nervous nellie like myself, it's been daunting, yet exhilarating too. THANKS SO MUCH to all of you who’ve popped in here to visit, or joined me at signings. I’ve enjoyed getting to know YOU!

So here’s that year-end wrap up I’ve been mulling. One thing I’ve learned is—other than book signings—I don’t get out much, lol. Seriously, I reviewed the list of 2007 films and found that I hadn’t seen many. I’m listing those I liked, plus one I probably would have liked should I have actually paid the 9+ bucks to see it. Feel free to leave a comment with some of your faves.

Okay, Movies of 2007 I liked

Dan in Real Life (Sooo sweet, plus scenes of coastal Rhode Island, ahhh)
Freedom Writers (Patrick Dempsey plays such a dweeb)
The Ultimate Gift (Lots to chew on here)
Blades of Glory (Kinda sick, but made me laugh)
Hairspray (Great music!)
Amazing Grace (Didn't see it, but it’s on my dvd watching list for 2008)

2007 Books I Read and Liked (I'm probably forgetting some, but these are standouts.)

A Promise to Remember, Kathryn Cushman (Riveting, a real page-turner, I loved it.)

Surrender Bay, Denise Hunter (Stunning allegory)

The Book of Jane, Dayton & Vanderbilt (fun, smooth reading)

Renovating Becky Miller, Sharon Hinck (Made me want to find myself an old farmhouse, lol...not)

Island of the Blue Dolphins, Scott O'Dell (Children's classic, but I ate up this story about a lost indian girl on an island not far from where I live. A must read, even tho' it came out way before '07!)

Every Good & Perfect Gift, Sharon K. Souza (I read this for endorsement; it’s not out yet. All I can say is “Wow!" A new author to watch.)

2007 TV Shows

Samantha Who? (I miss Gilmore Girls, but have found this fun new show. Weird premise, crazy characters—wish I’d thought of it.)
American Idol, of course.
House Hunters & House Hunters International (my poor husband...)

YouTube of the Year: Hilarious. I come from a family of sensitive guys, so this makes me laugh every time. If you’ve never watched Scrubs (I wouldn’t blame you since it’s gotten pretty outrageous), these guys are best friends on the show.



And finally, Inspiration of the Year: I want to be this girl when I grow up. May she inspire us all in 2008 to get out there and serve somebody.

Teen brings school to Cambodia

Name that Fave

Just popping in to say hey--have an early appointment today. I've been noticing a lot of round ups or wrap ups, whatever you want to call them, appearing on blogs. So I'm going to do one too, but closer to New Years. You know, fave movie of the year, song, TV show, etcetera.... I already have some opinions, but I'm open to bribes your suggestions, so while I'm mulling, fire away.

Have a beachy day ;)

A First Look!

My editors over at Bethany House surprised me on Christmas Eve with a freshly-baked copy of... Truffles by the Sea! Thanks Charlene and Sarah!

I wasn't expecting to see a copy for a couple of weeks, then just after picking up our Christmas Eve tamales, I found the book-sized package waiting for me on my front steps. Woo-hoo!

I wish I'd taken a pic of it for you, but after smelling its freshness and then letting my family take a peek, I wrapped it in Christmas paper and gave it away--to my mother, 'cuz this one's dedicated to her :)

It should start appearing in stores in about a month, so be sure to stop in around then. I'll be giving away some on this blog (and on a few others as well--I'll post links so you can find them). And seriously, what's better than a free book?

Speaking of free stuff, whad'ja get for Christmas this year? Other than extra pounds, that is ;) Anyway, hope it was a beautiful, healthy and happy one for you. Now spill on the gifts.

To you and yours...

Not too sick to vote...

What do Nyquil, 1000% of vitamin C and Claritin all have in common? They're all coursing through my veins right now.

But I've come out of my haze to let you know that Truffles by the Sea made it to the second round of voting over at the ACFW book club poll. The club's in the process of choosing the February read, and if you'd like to vote, it's easy to do. Just join the club by sending a blank e-mail to acfwbookclub-subscribe@yahoogroups.com. Once you're in, click on 'polls', locate the one for Feb. and vote!

Thanks so much for the support. My book's up against a couple of my faves, so--and I'm totally serious here--it's an honor to be nominated!

p.s. Poll closes December 26 :)

Cheers!

Taking a bit of a break from blogging as I attempt to finish wrapping gifts, make homemade candy, and prep Christmas Eve dinner, all while keeping the house decent with three kids home from school. In other words, the usual. You mamas out there know what I'm talkin' about...

In order to do these things with a smile on my face, I'm sucking down drinking a bit more coffee than normal. So it's not unusual that this list of "signs you're drinking too much caffeine" posted over at my local coffeehouse caught my attention. Thought I'd share it with y'all. Maybe you can relate? (Yeah, me too)

Here's to all the plans ahead in the next few days...and staying awake long enough to enjoy them all! Bless you guys!

- You answer the door before people knock.

· Juan Valdez named his donkey after you.

· You grind your coffee beans in your mouth.

· You lick your coffeepot clean.

· You’re the employee of the month at the local coffeehouse and you don’t even work there.

· You chew on other people’s fingernails.

· Your T-shirt says, “Decaffeinated coffee is the devil’s blend.”

· You can type sixty words per minute ... with your feet.

· You can jump-start your car without cables.

· Cocaine is a downer.

· You don’t need a hammer to pound nails.

· You don’t sweat, you percolate.

· You buy ½ & ½ by the barrel.

· You’ve worn out the handle on your favorite mug.

· You go to AA meetings just for the free coffee.

· You walk twenty miles on your treadmill before you realize it’s not plugged in.

· You forget to unwrap candy bars before eating them.

· You’ve built a miniature city out of little plastic stirrers.

· You’ve worn the finish off your coffee table.

· The Taster’s Choice couple wants to adopt you.

· Instant coffee takes too long.

· When someone says. “How are you?”, you say, “Good to the last drop.”

· You want to be cremated just so you can spend the rest of eternity in a coffee can.

· Your birthday is a national holiday in Brazil.

· You’re offended when people use the word “brew” to mean beer.

· You have a picture of your coffee mug on your coffee mug.

· You can thread a sewing machine, while it’s running.

· You don’t even wait for the water to boil anymore.

· Your nervous twitch registers on the Richter scale.

· You think being called a “drip” is a compliment.

· You don’t tan, you roast.

· You can’t even remember your second cup.

· You help your dog chase its tail.

mall hopping and poll vaulting

Did some rainy day Christmas shopping in SoCal with my girls today and found some fabulous stuff...for me. LOL No worries, I was a good girl and focused on my list instead. I'm not usually into shopping but seriously my inner-chick showed up today and had a ball. Could almost hear Perry Como singing as I rushed home with my treasures...

In other news, the ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) Book Club poll is up today and Truffles by the Sea is on it. Yay! The book that 'wins' in the poll will be read and discussed some time in February. Honestly, my newest release is 'competing' against books by some of my favorite people. It's humbling, I tell ya.

If you'd like to vote, you need to be a member. Anyone can join the book club by sending a blank e-mail to acfwbookclub-subscribe@yahoogroups.com And membership is FREE FREE FREE. (And considering all the shopping I did today, that's an especially great thing ;-)

The elephant in the ...

So my son's participating in a white elephant gift exchange this week and guess what he chose to wrap up and give away to some unsuspecting recipient?

Yeah, my novel, Chocolate Beach.

At first I was flattered. Of all the things he could give away, he chose his mama's first book. But that was when I thought it was a simple Christmas gift exchange. Didn't realize it was a white elephant exchange.

For those needing a refresher, here's one dictionary.com definition of white elephant: a possession unwanted by the owner but difficult to dispose of.

Well. Need I say that this is not true of my 10-month old booky? I may be readying myself to birth again, but I will always love CB because she is my first (insert dramatic sigh here).

So I'm back to being flattered, and a little impressed, because Teen Son also thought (totally on his own!) to include a postcard for Truffles by the Sea with the gift. And if a guy chooses it? Well, then, I hope his mother enjoys it.

;)

Suzi Lu Who?

I took this quiz right after my latte and this is how it turned out. I may take it again after a day of shopping followed by searching for my car for an hour :]]
How about you?

You Are the Furthest Thing From Grinch

You love and live for the holidays. You even love the Grinch! You're in the holiday spirit year round... because you're all about celebrating and giving.

Are You a Grinch?

Writing is easy...

...it's the reviews that can be hard ;0

During a recent discussion with other writers, a friend told of a lousy, unmerited review she received. Of course, this got the ball rolling and other writers chimed in with their review sob stories. THIS one got to me, though, and with her permission, I'd like to share. Read on:

"I got mostly really good reviews for Petticoat Ranch. But there was a classic one-star that I copied and did a Find on so I could count the number of times the reviewer used the word 'disgusting'. Well, I put up with it as it appeared, word for word, on CBD, Amazon, Barnes and Noble and on and on. Until finally I'd had enough and I wrote to the reviewer and said, "Mom, if you can't say something nice about somebody, you shouldn't say anything at all."

LOL

You can visit the author of this "sad, somewhat fictionalized, tale" at MaryConneally.com.

p.s. Truffles by the Sea will be out in about a month. Go easy.

The Machine Broke

How often does a nearly new, state of the art radiation machine break? Apparently at least once. That's what Kristy was told yesterday when she arrived for her first radiation treatment. Her and hubby Milton's reaction?

They laughed.

And that's what I've come to love about them. They live out the verse in the Bible that says a merry heart makes good medicine. They also gave credit to the thousands out there praying, telling the technician that "all these prayers overpowered your machine."

I think that's why I choose to write stories that have an element of humor (you do think I'm funny, right? lol...) As I've continued to brainstorm new ideas (Sorry for that awful pun. Something tells me Kristy would laugh at that, though), many have serious overtones, yet a sort of organic humor often pours from the situations. My mother tells me that when I had my own tumor, I did crazy, funny things. (Some might have thought it was the meds talking, but my mother knows me too well ;) Seriously, I think God gave us laughter to help us combat the things we just cannot control.

Like machine's that break. It's absurd that Kristy would have to emotionally gear up for treatment only to be told the machine is broken. But I like her's and Milton's style because they laughed. As they've said, "God is at work, and we choose to trust him." And they're not kidding.

For more on Kristy, read her blog here.

pass the chocolate...

OhAmanda's giving away a basket of chocolaty-beachy-goodness over at her blog (including a copy of Chocolate Beach--natch). Find out how to enter her oh-so-fun contest on her site.

***

Still have much Christmas shopping to do, do, do! How about you? If I could just plow through without all those coffee and sweet stops, maybe I could get-her done. LOL

***

Thanks for praying for Kristy (see post below if you haven't already). I'll give you an update when I can.

Prayers for Kristy

You can make a difference in Kristy Dykes' life! Kristy's a writer who recently learned she had a brain tumor. She's already had surgery to remove much of it, but she's in need of a miracle. You can read about it on her blog, which her hubby Milton faithfully keeps up to date for her.

THIS Monday, Dec. 10, 2007, at 3:30 pm EST, thousands of people will be praying for Kristy at the time of her first radiation treatment.

Would you join us? Although my own was benign, I too had a brain tumor years ago. Kristy's story has so touched me and I'd be so honored if you would join me in prayer for her (and others you know with cancer--I have a close friend going in for surgery this very week, so she's in my prayers as well!)

Looky, looky!

Just got in some bookmarks for Truffles by the Sea. That's both sides over to the left. Aren't they pretty? If you want one, send a snail address to me via my website.

Also, I still have lots of Bethany House bookplates left. If you're giving the gift of Chocolate Beach this Christmas, I'd be happy to sign one and send it your way.

***

Off to the yearly Christmas program at our daughters' school. Pray none of the donkeys get loose or any angels fly off the stage. Haha...kidding. That couldn't happen. Right?

I've been nice. Really, I have.

Saw this on Cara Putman's blog. She swiped borrowed it from Tina Forkner's blog.


Ho-ho-ho!

Boglius...

Monster waves have been slamming the shore over the last 24 hours and words is they'll continue until Friday. Police have set up electronic signs all over the place warning people not to go to the beach, but surfers never read those :) Seriously, just this afternoon Teen Daughter and I saw a bunch of surf dudes carrying their boards northward, presumably after taking the ride of their lives.

So anyway, something tells me Hawaii's seen surf much more "kickin'" than this, but still. For those of us who can hear the earth being pummeled by waves taller than my living room ceiling, it's da bomb, I tell ya.

Sunscreen, anyone?

We believe

I've wanted one of these statues for years, and finally found one in a nearby nursery. It's sitting on my mantle now, right next to the row of brass stocking hangers that spell out the word PEACE.

Isn't this the coolest?

Free Autographed Bookplate

Buying Chocolate Beach for someone special this Christmas? I'd like to send you a signed publisher's bookplate that you can include with your gift. (As William said to Anna Scott in Notting Hill: "Very useful for lighting fires, wrapping fish, that sort of thing.")

Anyway, just email me your snail address and the name of the recipient by mid-December, so I can get it to you in time! (If you live outside of the USA, delivery may take a bit longer.)

Here are some of the online (and discounted! :) outlets where you can buy Chocolate Beach:

CBD.com,
Amazon,
B&N.com
and Parable.com

updated: Silly me, I forgot to say that you can e-me through my website :*)

I'm Lucy!

One of my writing buddies just launched True Christmas cards. You can order cards and a portion of the proceeds will benefit your church or other non-profit (check with them on the details on that). Anyway, I just took a peek, and the cards are pr-et-tay!

***
So I was curled up on the couch last night watching A Charlie Brown Christmas when I had to hit the pause button and holler for hubby to come on out to the living room.

"Watch this," I said.

Lucy was whining to Charlie B. that all she ever gets for Christmas are dumb toys and clothes, and what she really wants is....REAL ESTATE!

LOL, that's just so me it's not even funny. Hubby just laughed, shook his head, and walked out. Poor guy. I think I'd better take another look at those Christmas cards and think about the true meaning of the holiday...

And besides, there's always my birthday, right hon? Hee-hee!

Deja who?

Sat around last night watching Samantha Who?, a series about a gal with amnesia, and felt like I'd fallen into a world of deja vu myself. Teen Daughter and I giggled nearly every time a new character walked into a scene because we knew them so well from other shows, like Gilmore Girls, Related (two characters from that one!), 7th Heaven, Designing Women (okay, TG's too young to remember that one, but still). The heroine of the show (that would be Samantha) grew up on a show I wasn't allowed to watch ;0, so we won't mention it here...

So anyway, I'm wondering if my pal Gilmore Girls Fanatic also feels a bit melancholy when seeing one of our beloved GG cast members in a new role...sigh. (Yeah, obsession runs deep.) First there's our Sookie playing a ditz on the aforementioned show, then afterward another show popped on and there was Kirk with a very odd haircut, and of course, our Lorelai playing Noah's wife...

Me thinks it's time to crack open a new book.

Gracias...

Spent Thanksgiving up in the Yosemite National Park this year. In case you're wondering, we rented a cabin...I'm just not a camping girl. Besides, it was c-o-l-d up there--brrr. Thankfully, I had my Dan there to keep me warm...

Anyway, there's something so poetic about 'making do' when you're out on the road, especially during a holiday. We spent our days there with some family friends who also have three kiddos in the same age range. Before dinner, our youngest girls collected fallen pine cones to make a centerpiece, then they decorated store-bought cookies with M&Ms and candy corn. When my friend Deb and I realized we'd forgotten to bring mixins for stuffing, we combined our resources and ended up with a version that was oh-so delicioso (the garlic essence lasted for days, but that's another story...:)

Even though we were far away from the conveniences of home, including a large market, like most Americans we ate way too much and had more than enough (hence the foil-wrapped leftovers we brought back with us to the beach), and for that I am truly grateful.

How about you? How was your Thanksgiving this year?

Bring on the ala mode

Big plans for Thanksgiving this year, so in honor of all the eating I'll be doing that I'm thankful for, I give you this quiz. Let me know how you fare, and have a HAPPY holiday! Quiz on:

You Are Apple Pie

You're the perfect combo of comforting and traditional. You prefer things the way you've always known them. You'll admit that you're old fashioned, and you don't see anything wrong with that. Your tastes and preferences are classic. And classic never goes out of style. Those who like you crave security. People can rely on you to be true to yourself - and true to them. You're loyal, trustworthy, and comfortable in your own skin. And because of these qualities, you've definitely earned a lot of respect.

What Kind of Pie Are You?

will write for ...

Went to a little Thanksgiving chapel at my daughters' school, and Elem. Girl's class gave a presentation set to music. During the song, each kiddo climbed up onto a box and held a large poster board over their head, proclaiming what they were thankful for. Elem. Girl hadn't told me what she'd written; she wanted me to be surprised, and yeah, I was when she held up a sign to much applause:

CHOCOLATE

We're not obsessed or anything...;0

Then on Saturday, we helped my mom put on a little baby shower for my sissie-in-law, and what was one of the highlights, you ask? Hint: it's over there on the left.

Don't you just wanna dip yourself in it? LOL I think the management would have frowned on that, so we 'settled' for dipping strawberries and rice krispy treats and melon and oh-my-goodness marshmallows in it.

I've got an inkling of where Elementary Girls gets her obsession...

How writers dine

So when I met up with Katie Cushman for lunch last week, I brought along all kinds of stuff. There were the books I wanted her to sign (I made her sign them right there at the table, giggling at the sidelong glances from various wait staff). And the magazine from my recent vacation that had an ad in it featuring one of the models from the cover of Katie's book--seriously, it was her, only this time, instead of looking downcast over the tragic events of her life, she was curling a bicep under the weight of a small barbell (yeah--it was a gym ad).

Then while Katie waited for her corn chowder to arrive, I flopped open the pages of another mag.

"Look at this," I said.

"Hm."

"I want to write a book about this," I continued, pointing at one small paragraph in an article I'd found in my favorite magazine. I waited as she read the nugget that had caught my attention.

"I like it!"

And just like that, an idea received a bit of nourishment as we talked about what kind of book this might one day become.

Brainstorming while eating is nothing new to me. Come to think of it, my mom and I have had storyboarding breakfasts for years. And hubby often listens to me drone carry on during dinner about some idea I've been cooking up. Hm. So while it's all about the food or the wine or the service for some, for writerly folks it's more about the story--pass the 'what ifs', por favor?

The Chocolate Series

So last summer I put out the call for good chick flicks that Teen Daughter and I could watch together (that's an all-time fave of mine over there on the left). Your responses coupled with the ones I received through a forum over at the ACFW supplied us with a list long enough to cause Teen Son and Hubby to run screaming out of the living room on several occasions. Even when the movies were duds, that in itself made them worth it ;')

We've gotten restless again, TD and I, and we're back to spending weekends mocking watching films again. Like the other night when we watched a perplexing and occasionally witty movie called Elizabethtown. I'm still not sure what that was all about, but we plowed our way through two plates of nachos in a quest to find out.

So anyway, last night we watched Hidden Places, a film based on the Christy award winning novel by Lynn Austin. And it's a Hallmark too. Sweet, charming, predictable, but it was a school night so we weren't looking for anything too taxing. I especially liked seeing Shirley Jones wearing a depression-era wig and spectacles, although I occasionally caught myself humming, "C'mon get happy!"

Which brings me to a new thought. Stay with me here. How about Chocolate Beach & Truffles by the Sea made into chick flicks. Better yet a mini-chick-flick-series. (And whatever happened to the mini series anyway?)

Seriously, can't you see it? It could be during February, a sort of week long Valentine's Day celebration. Just think. Girls and mamas everywhere bonding over chocolate-laced chick flicks, with faith in the mix. What's not to love?

It's in the air...

We interrupt our regularly scheduled program for a bit of swooning. Have y'all heard about the guy from NY who fell for a gal he saw on a subway train in NY...lost sight of her...then started a website to find her? He did. Find her that is, and to prove it, they went on GMA together (If I'd written their story, I probably would have given them a more romantic place to rendezvous, but that's just me.)

Anyway, wish I'd thought of it, but something tells me they'll write their own book. ..

http://www.nygirlofmydreams.com/

video of GMA interview of nygirlofmydreams guy & gal